A picture from Days of Caring 2015 kickoff

United Way of Dane County will kick off its 2016 Annual Campaign at Mallards Stadium Tuesday, Aug. 16, marking the 23nd Annual Days of Caring. It is the largest annual volunteer event in Dane County, bringing together more than 3,500 people to volunteer across the community. At the kickoff, United Way will announce a goal to raise $18.6 million for the community.

“We often hear Dane County is the best place to live, but that reality is only true for some,” said Kevin Conroy, Exact Sciences Chairman and CEO and chair of this year’s United Way of Dane County campaign. “With our campaign focused on the invisibility of poverty, we challenge our community to see the poverty that has gone unseen and learn about the solutions United Way is providing with the help of our many partners.”

Community leaders, volunteers, partner agencies and the entire community are all invited to this event. The campaign kickoff luncheon that is generously sponsored by American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation. Then, discover first-hand how United Way brings resources together at our Days of Caring Signature Project. United Way is holding a HIRE job readiness fair from 1:30 to 5 p.m. at Village on Park, 2300 S. Park Street. Individuals will have access to a number of resources, like resume-writing assistance, interview experts, financial education and a professional clothing drive. Free child care will be provided. Media is welcome to both events.

Last year, the Days of Caring Signature Project was the Job Readiness Fair. More than 80 people attended the event on Village on Park. Resources like resume-building, interview skills, professional clothes, hair stylists, hygiene products and financial literacy education all came together in one place to provide residents with the support they need to find their next job.

Last year's Days of Caring Signature Project was the Job Readiness Fair.
Last year’s Days of Caring Signature Project was the Job Readiness Fair.

The public can still sign up to volunteer for Days of Caring, which continues this Thursday and Friday.

“With Kevin’s leadership in Dane County’s growing tech sector, we are so excited to leverage his experience and create strategies that will widen United Way’s reach,” said Renee Moe, United Way of Dane County’s President and CEO. “By raising the community’s awareness of key issues, we help facilitate those who need help with those who want to give help in the areas of Education, Income and Health.”

United Way is hoping that by engaging all community members, they can move closer to its shared vision of a Dane County where everyone can succeed in school, work and life. Community members can engage with United Way throughout the year by visiting its newly redesigned website. On social media, join the conversation with #GiveUnited.